Tapping into Creativity

Creativity is a funny thing. Everyone has creative potential – it just takes time to develop. Some may say there is a certain mystery that surrounds creativity. For me, there is no mystery. Throughout my life as an artist, I’ve been asked about the creative process as though I have the magic keys to the castle. In this post, I reveal my understanding of the creative process.

The first stage is about preparation. This is a relatively mundane process but very important. There are times when it may be a matter of rearranging your life, which is no small task. For example, this year presented new events which greatly disrupted my ability to work. Losing my studio to the Winter flood was an unforeseen condition that made it very difficult to create a comfortable place to work. Fortunately, I found my place…just under the open sky and trees outside the ArtShed. My paintings may be exposed to the random dive bomb from a local bird but this is the kind of chaos I can handle. Last week a coyote got trapped inside the studio and created a huge mess. Just last week, I experienced yet another unexpected event. Oh well!

Once I’ve prepared the right environment, it is time to cultivate and nurture creativity. At this stage, it is easy to get distracted by daily life. Listening to the world news can overwhelm and grab the attention of the mind. As a result, the creative process is muffled and replaced by more immediate concerns. It is at this delicate stage where I need to free myself mentally.

Out of nowhere, illumination can happen. It is an impulse to get an idea out as soon as possible. It can happen any time, while exercising, showering, or driving. It is these moments, the creative force takes over and I am rushing to the studio. This calling overtakes me – when painting all day leaves me with burning eyes , it is time for a break. It is a humbling experience.

Divine force everywhere to you I bow.

Once I get the sense of illumination, it is time to paint or implement creative inspiration. All the preparation and cultivation serves as fertile ground for illumination and then the expression. It’s the time of big open brush strokes and tied fine lines. A new feel, a different scale is the result.

Work completes the circle of creativity. It is forward moving and exciting. Energy ebbs and flows while creativity is a constant.

Hi, Sargam-
Your message just popped up unexpectedly in my email–and what a delightful diversion from all the other dribble. I needed to hear about inspiration this morning – and acting on it!
Yes, life just keeps coming at us, doesn’t it. Sorry to hear about your studio, though. Some things are harder than others – but learning resilience and finding joy again are what makes the difference.
Thank you.

ABOUT

Surrendering to a larger consciousness is how Sargam Griffin evokes her own unique creative expression. Engaging with the artist is a journey without a roadmap; through the experience, you’ll never know exactly where it will lead, but it is very clear once you’ve arrived.